Members of the media and the community are advised that, as stated by Mayor Sanderson at the September 3, 2019 Council Meeting, a Staff Report and a By-Law to execute an agreement between the Municipality of Port Hope and Southbridge Care Homes will be presented at the September 17, 2019 Council Meeting, for consideration by Council.

The proposed Agreement, to be authorized by the Mayor and the Clerk and executed by By-law, is consistent with the Council direction received April 2, 2019, to develop an agreement between the Municipality of Port Hope and Southbridge Care Homes to ensure that certain development approvals, permits and related matters have been obtained and completed prior to the withdrawal of the Notice of Intention to Designate 65 Ward Street.

The Resolution further states that upon the terms of the agreement being satisfied, Staff be directed to seek Council authorization to publish a Notice of Withdrawal of the Intention to Designate 65 Ward Street, in accordance with Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act.

As is the usual practice, the agenda for the September 17, 2019 Council Meeting will be posted on the Municipal Council Portal on the afternoon of Friday, September 13 at https://porthope.civicweb.net/Portal/

Inquiries can be forwarded to the Municipal Clerk’s Office at 905-885-4544.

Below is a summary of key items discussed at the Municipality of Port Hope regular Council Meeting held on Tuesday, September 3, 2019. The full agenda and staff reports are available on the Council Portal.

Blue Dot Resolution PresentationDuring the regular Council meeting, representatives from Blue Dot Northumberland presented Members of Council with a framed copy the Blue Dot Resolution. This resolution was originally passed by Council on January 16, 2018, and declares that the Municipality of Port Hope recognizes the role all levels of government play in providing a healthy environment. It affirms that Council shall continue to communicate, consult, and collaborate with the other levels of government to help ensure the decisions of all levels of government protect the health of Port Hope residents and the environment. The framed resolution can be found in the corporate display cabinet in the Committee Room at Town Hall.

Zero Emissions PartnershipCouncil passed a By-law that executes a Memorandum of Understanding between the Municipality of Port Hope and Ontario Power Generation (OPG), relating to the potential use of Municipal lands for the purpose of installing, owning, operating and maintaining Level 2 Electric Vehicle Chargers and related equipment. This initiative aligns with the Municipality’s mission to deliver efficient and effective government services with an approach that is financially sustainable and environmentally responsible.

Rose’s CottageAfter consideration of a report, Council authorized Staff to work with the owner of the building to prepare a Council report with recommendations for a new agreement that contains terms, conditions and relocation timeframe milestones that are realistic, achievable and will result in the building being removed from King’s Field no later than the end of 2019.

The cottage is currently temporarily located on the Municipality’s King’s Field until the owner of the cottage can permanently relocate the building to a private lot. Rose’s cottage was moved to the temporary location at King’s Field earlier in the summer after a group of citizens and architectural conservancy advocates expressed concerns about the imminent demolition of the structure to accommodate the construction of the Strachan Street extension.

Minutes from this meeting will be available pending approval at the next Council meeting on Tuesday, September 17, 2019, at which point they will become the official record of the meeting.

A recording of the September 3, 2019 Budget Committee meeting, Regular Council meeting and the Committee of the Whole meeting is available at porthope.ca/council-communications.

Below is a summary of key items discussed at the Municipality of Port Hope regular Council Meeting held on Tuesday, August 6, 2019. The full agenda and staff reports are available on the Council Portal.

Waterfront and Riverwalk Working GroupMembers of Council established and adopted the terms of reference for a Waterfront and Riverwalk Working Group (WRWG). The By-law outlines that the Working Group will consist of no more than seven members: five members who are residents and/or ratepayers of the Municipality, being a minimum of 18 years of age and not an employee of the Municipality; one member from the Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority; one member of the Parks, Recreation and Culture Advisory Committee. The By-law also stipulates that a majority of the members of the Committee shall be persons with a high level of expertise or experience with respect to environmental matters including landscape and open space planning, public education or community outreach, terrestrial and aquatic ecology and hydrology. The By-law, including the full terms of reference, can be found on the Council Portal of the Municipality’s website.

Land Acknowledgement StatementCouncil adopted the following Land Acknowledgement Statement, to be recited at the beginning of Council meetings and at other municipal events; “We acknowledge that this meeting is being held on the traditional territory of the Mississauga Nations.”

Additionally, Council directed Municipal Staff to investigate and propose an Indigenous education program for Council and Staff, to cultivate a greater understanding of the adopted Land Acknowledgement Statement and so that it may be used with the understanding of its historical and cultural context. Staff will present a proposed program and corresponding budget at a future Council meeting.

Waterfront Trail Re-RoutedCouncil supported the re-routing of the Waterfront Trail beginning at the Sculthorpe parking lot heading east along Lake Street for an undetermined period of time. This was recommended by Staff in a report to the Parks, Recreation, and Culture Committee on July 2, 2019 after recent heavy rainfall and high water levels from Lake Ontario this season has damaged the Trail. This portion of the path was previously remediated after similar damage was caused by weather and water-related incidents in 2017. Until the root cause of the high water events are better understood and appropriate, effective remedial measures are known, Staff advise that no further work will be done to the Trail.

Resolution of Support Regarding Lake Ontario Water LevelsCouncil has supported the Town of Cobourg in their request to the Federal and Provincial Governments to conduct a formal investigation into the flooding events of 2017 and 2019 in affected communities along the Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River, specifically the economic impacts and damage to infrastructure.

The International Joint Commission (IJC) approved Plan 2014, a plan to regulate water levels and flows in Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River to protect against extreme water levels, to restore wetlands and to prepare for climate change. This plan has had a negative effect on the shorelines of the Municipality of Port Hope and other municipalities surrounding Lake Ontario.

The IJC is guided by the Boundary Waters Treaty, signed by Canada and the United States in 1909. The Commission was created after both governments recognized that each country is affected by the other's actions in lake and river systems along the border. The intent of the commission is to ensure that the two countries cooperate to manage these waters and to protect them for the benefit of today's citizens and future generations.Council supports this resolution to advocate for the IJC approved Plan 2014 to be evaluated and measured for effectiveness and verifiable impacts by the Federal and Provincial Governments and to Council authorize the Mayor to engage with government and non-government organizations and agencies involved with Lake Ontario flood mitigation.

Council Community BBQResidents are reminded that Members of Council are hosting a free community BBQ on Thursday, August 15, 2019 from 6 to 7 p.m. at Memorial Park. Following dinner, residents are encouraged to stay for the Cameco Summer Bandshell Concert Series performance, beginning at 7 p.m. All are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Minutes from this meeting will be available pending approval at the next Council meeting on Tuesday, September 3, 2019, at which point they will become the official record of the meeting.

The incident that occurred in the Municipality of Port Hope (Welcome) this morning has been brought to a safe conclusion, with the suspect now in police custody. On behalf of Members of Council, Mayor Bob Sanderson has issued the following statement to the community:

“I would like to thank all of those involved in the police investigation that took place in our community this morning. Port Hope Fire and Emergency Services, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), supported by the Port Hope Police Service, as well as Northumberland Paramedics acted quickly to keep our residents safe and we are grateful for their dedicated service to bring this situation to a swift conclusion.”

At this time, the OPP will continue their investigation and all matters related to the incident will be handled by their office.

The following information has been provided by the Ontario Provincial Police for residents and visitors of the Municipality of Port Hope:

An active police investigation is currently underway in the Welcome area. Residents are asked to stay inside and avoid the area. Please call 911 if you have any information or see any suspicious behaviour. Suspect is described as a black male, 170 cm, last seen wearing a black t-shirt and blue jeans.

A heavy police presence is in the area. Updates will be provided when more information becomes available.

The ever-growing Port Hope Arts Festival returns next month with an impressive line-up of musical and artistic talents, all set to merge on the Port Hope scene on Saturday, August 10, beginning at 8 a.m.

“The Port Hope Arts Festival is truly a celebration of the incredible culture that we have to draw from here in Port Hope and throughout Northumberland County, and it provides a platform for multi-generational programming for our residents and visitors,” notes Bob Sanderson, Mayor of the Municipality of Port Hope. “It is one of our premiere events and we look forward to hosting it each year.”

The outdoor, free event is marking its 16th anniversary this summer with a celebration of art, agriculture, music, and community. The art and farm vendor market reflects a colourful mix of Northumberland County’s culture and will showcase the diverse talents and products of local and regional artists. Market vendors will be open for extended hours until 3 p.m. and shoppers can expect over 45 retailers this year, with a wide range of handmade original products and their favourite local food options well into the afternoon.

Event goers can also visit Memorial Park between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. for live entertainment from the Bandshell, a summer BBQ, and lots of colourful, interactive activities for the kids.

New for 2019 is the Port Hope Arts Festival Juried Exhibition where the public can view selected pieces at the Port Hope Public Library until August 10. Voting is open for the People’s Choice Award now until August 9. All works for sale on location on August 10 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

The Festival art experience is also expanding beyond downtown Port Hope this year. The Festival will include an ‘Art on the Porch’ installment. Five local artists will open up their porches to the public on August 10 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Visit the five locations to view an eclectic assortment of art pieces by local artists.

Additionally, a play reading will be taking place in the Council Chambers at Town Hall. Taking Liberties, by Dave Carley, examines five critical moments in the life of a city, when ordinary citizens are forced to make extraordinary choices. The play moves back through five decades, illustrating how the moral dilemmas of one era can impact the events of another. Live readings of the play are scheduled for August 9 (8 p.m.) and August 10 (3 p.m. & 8 p.m.). Pay what you can at the door.

The Municipality of Port Hope is gearing up for its Canada Day celebrations this weekend, with events taking place throughout the community, beginning Saturday, June 29, through to Monday, July 1.

“We do Canada Day big here in Port Hope, with activities and events scheduled all weekend long, and throughout the community,” noted Bob Sanderson, Mayor of the Municipality of Port Hope. “Together with our community partners, we’re hosting an impressive homegrown festival of music, food, culture, and all of the favourite Canada Day traditions, including our parade and evening fireworks display. We’re looking forward to a busy weekend ahead.”

Patrons can expect to see a few new activities at the celebration this year, including the addition of a climbing wall, an escape room, wildlife presentations and a pancake breakfast in the park. As well, Northumberland County has planned their annual Multicultural Day in Memorial Park, which will take place on Saturday, June 29, and will kick-start the weekend of events.

Highlights of the 2019 Port Hope Canada Day celebrations include:

Saturday, June 29

10 a.m. – 11 p.m. The 5th Annual Multicultural Festival hosted by Northumberland County: A free, family friendly, multicultural experience that will be a colourful day of music, cultural performances and an ethno food truck fair. Free Admission

3 p.m. – 11 p.m. The Port Hope & District Agricultural Society and Trucks of Ontario are hosting a Truck Pull, Show and Dyno at the Town Agricultural Park (62 McCaul St). Hundreds of trucks will be on display. Admission $5.00; 12 and under are free. Gates open at 3 p.m. and the Truck Pull begins at 7 p.m.

Sunday, July 30

Dusk: The Canada Day edition of ‘Movies in the Park’ will feature cult classic The Princess Bride. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and join us under the stars at Memorial Park for this family friendly experience. Free Admission. (Sponsored by Esco Ltd).

10:15 p.m.: Spectacular fireworks display at the East Beach pier* (sponsored by the Carpenters Union Local 397).

*Residents are advised that sections of the waterfront will have restricted access due to the damage from high water levels of Lake Ontario. Event attendees are asked to comply with these closures. The fireworks display will not be impacted; however portions of the beach, waterfront trail and the boat launch area are currently closed.

Our partners and sponsors play a key role in uniting our community for shared and engaging experiences on Canada Day. Many generous supporters have come forward to help in the delivery of this community celebration. To view the list of sponsors and for the full event schedule, visit porthope.ca/canada-day.

Banners paying tribute to local war veterans will adorn the streets in downtown Port Hope this fall

For Immediate Release

Wednesday, June 19, 2019 - Port Hope, ON

During a special announcement at the war cenotaph in Memorial Park today, the Municipality of Port Hope, in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Port Hope, the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 30 and the Heritage Business Improvement Area (HBIA), unveiled a new war heroes veteran banner program, an initiative that will display images of local war veterans throughout downtown Port Hope this fall.

“This is an exciting new initiative for our community and we are proud to participate in what will be a wonderful, visual reminder of the sacrifices made by our war heroes,” noted Bob Sanderson, Mayor of the Municipality of Port Hope. “Working in partnership with special interest groups in the community has made this program accessible to everyone and it’s exactly the kind of collaboration that makes Port Hope so extraordinary.”

At the official program launch event on June 19, representatives from the collaborating partners made brief remarks and a mock banner was unveiled. It was explained that this is a legacy program intended to pay tribute to local veterans, deceased veterans and active service members and that the project will launch with a total of 30 banners, with potential to grow the program in the future.

"The members of the Rotary Club of Port Hope are privileged to honour the women and men who served in military service, putting their lives on the line for our freedom and democracy,” explained Bob Wallace, President of the Rotary Club of Port Hope. “The Avenue of Heroes Banner program is a small way to recognize those who served and to publicly thank them for their service and sacrifice."

Hosting a veteran banner program is not unique to Port Hope. In conjunction with local legion branches, many other communities across Canada participate in a similar project as a way to acknowledge and pay respect to war veterans and active service members in their communities.

“When the Rotary Club of Port Hope approached us to be part of the ‘Avenue of Heroes Banner Program’ it was a great opportunity for us to promote our mandate: Lest We Forget,” included Andre Labrosse, President of the Royal Canadian Legion Brach 30 in Port Hope. “This program directly aligns with our goal as a branch of the Royal Canadian Legion to honour our veterans and we are thrilled to be part of a project that will remind the community of all the great contributions the men and women of Port Hope made for us and of the freedoms we enjoy today.”

How to Apply and Qualify for a Veteran Banner:

• Applications are available at the Port Hope Public Library, Town Hall, the Visitor Centre, The Port Hope Community Hub and the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 30. • There is no cost to participate, and complete applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.• Each specific service member must have a connection to the Port Hope area to qualify – they may be active, retired or deceased. • Application forms must be submitted with a high resolution 5”x7” portrait-style photo of the service member in uniform. • Applications can be dropped off at the Visitor Centre (20 Queen Street) and at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 30 (29A Thomas Street) in Port Hope.

Port Hope Fire and Emergency Services is participating in a Province-wide Fire Safety Day at the local Beer Store, located at 55 Peter Street in Port Hope on Saturday, June 15, 2019 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. to help raise awareness of fire prevention education in the community.

“Our mandate is be a presence in the community and educate our residents about fire prevention,” explains Fire Chief C. Ryan Edgar, Director of Fire and Emergency Services. “This initiative provides us with the perfect opportunity to meet and greet many of our local community members and arm them with fire safety tips.”

A new, exciting initiative, the Public Fire Safety Education section of the Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management has recently partnered with the Beer Store to hold a Fire Safety Day at various locations across Ontario.

“Everyone has a responsibility to protect their family and home from fire, and prevention is always the best course of action,” continues Chief Edgar. “We want residents to be aware that unattended cooking is the leading cause of home fires and injuries in the province and that many fatal fires occur at night when everyone is asleep. Fire Safety Day will give us a platform to educate the community about the importance of working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, fire escape plans, and early warning and detection tips, as it is crucial to survival.”

More information about the event can be found at porthopefire.ca or residents may contact the Fire Administration Office, located at 245 Ontario Street, Port Hope, at 905.753.2230.

The Municipality of Port Hope Parks, Recreation and Culture (PRC) Department is encouraging the community to celebrate Seniors’ Month, with planned activities and events taking place throughout the month, in recognition of the Province-wide initiative to celebrate older adults in our community.

“Celebrating our older adult population has always been a priority for this community and we’re proud to take part in this Provincial awareness campaign,” notes Bob Sanderson, Mayor of the Municipality of Port Hope. “We’re planning to invest in our seniors, as outlined in our Strategic Plan, to ensure that we continue to provide a safe, healthy and active community for our older adult population.”

This year, the Parks, Recreation and Culture Department is offering a series of events and activities throughout the month to highlight and celebrate seniors in our community, including:

• Bring a friend to the Ruth Clarke Activity Centre (RCAC) for free admission for the entire month of June

• Weekly draws and prizes at RCAC all month long

• Older Adult Open House from June 10-14: Across Port Hope, recreation centres and retirement homes are coming together to offer facilities tours and the chance to learn about programs and services. Participating locations will be open for tours from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For more details and locations, visit porthope.ca/calendar

About Seniors’ Month:June is Seniors’ Month in Ontario. The campaign celebrates seniors who built this province recognizes the contributions that have been made in communities across Ontario.The Provincial government’s theme this year is Aging Strong: Respect and Protect Seniors.The theme represents the importance of seniors’ valued experience and independence as they age, while celebrating their many contributions in building this province, and protecting what matters most to them.

For more information about programs and services that are available to help seniors lead healthy, active, and engaged lives over 65, visit ontario.ca/seniors.